Research Technician- FGT
The Kwon Laboratory at the Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston (www.kwonlab.org) has an opening for a highly motivated Research Technician to develop novel therapies to treat dysbiosis of the female genital tract microbiome and its associated diseases. The goal is to translate recent scientific discoveries from the Kwon lab into patient impact to improve the lives of millions experiencing bacterial vaginosis and help reduce the spread of HIV, particularly among young women in sub-Saharan Africa. The person hired will work under the supervision of Dr. Doug Kwon and Dr. Meilin Zhu, a research scientist, conducting patient-oriented translational research involving cutting-edge technologies. The position will involve the development and performance of anaerobic microbiological, host-microbial, and host-focused immunological assays to study mucosal bacteria and their interactions with the host
This is a great opportunity for someone interested in pursuing a career in scientific research or medicine while working in a supportive, highly collaborative, and energetic environment. The lab studies samples from ongoing clinical cohorts based in the US and South Africa examining risk of HIV, HIV pathogenesis, Bacterial Vaginosis, preterm birth, and other adverse outcomes to vaginal and reproductive health. State-of-the-art facilities are available within an exceptionally energetic research setting.
The Kwon lab is committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment; appropriately qualified applicants from all backgrounds will be considered.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Perform experiments analyzing microbial and tissue samples from human subjects, assessing the impact of the microbiome and HIV infection on cervicovaginal mucosal health.
- Perform and assist with experiments involving next-generation sequencing, bacteriology, immunologic assays, microscopy, flow cytometry, and molecular biology.
- Analyze data and present findings to others.
- Maintain detailed documentation of the experimental work.
- Ensure quality control of equipment, reagents, and cellular components.
- Read and interpret current literature to aid in experimental design.
- Work closely within the group and with outside collaborators.
- Maintain close communications with supervisors regarding progress.
SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
- Highly motivated and independent, with the ability to work in a dynamic team environment
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Laboratory experience required
- Computer experience including expertise with Microsoft Office programs is essential
- Experience with anaerobic microbiology is highly preferred
- Experience with R and Python is highly preferred
- Flexibility to occasionally work evenings and weekends if needed
EDUCATION:
Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, computational biology, biological engineering, ecology, or similar required.
EXPERIENCE:
New graduates with some lab experience (via coursework, internships, etc.) will be considered for the Research Technician I position outlined above.
TO APPLY
Please send your resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to Dr. Douglas Kwon (dkwon@mgh.harvard.edu).